[Indorsement.]

Adjutant-General, for attention.

It would be well to return the two brigades last detached from the Army of Mississippi, and to keep in communication so as to have the earliest information of necessities which may occur at Mobile.

It would be well to provide for an exchange of troops for Clanton's brigade. Could you advantageously do so?

J. D.

DALTON, January 11, 1864.

Lieutenant-General LONGSTREET,

Russelville, Tenn.:

It is believed here than Sherman's and Granger's corps went to Knoxville, and that Sherman's returned.

J. E. JOHNSTON.

DALTON, January 11, 1864.

Lieutenant-General POLK:

I refereed the question of troops from this army to Mississippi several days ago to the President. He has not decided. I did so because in a letter he estimated those brigades in the strength of this army. The ordnance officer has not been relieved. If Colonel Kennard can take the second place I shall be glad to have you relieve him.

J. E. JOHNSTON.

DALTON, January 11, 1864.

Lieutenant-General POLK,

Meridian, Miss.:

Major-General Maury has applied to me for aid. I cannot transfer troops without orders from Richmond, nor do I know your intention. I have asked the President several days ago to decide whether Quarles and Baldwin are to return.

J. E. JOHNSTON.

MERIDIAN, January 11, 1864.

General J. E. JOHNSTON,

Dalton, Ga.:

Have you any further information as to the raid from Huntsville?

Please keep me well advised.

L. POLK,

Lieutenant-General.

MERIDIAN, January 11, 1864.

General S. D. LEE,

Jackson, Miss.:

I have just received intelligence from General Maury that he cannot spare Colonel Maury for the proposed expedition. I fear that